Government launches new training program for shipbuilding

The Australian government has launched a new training initiative aimed at securing a steady stream of skilled and qualified workers to support Australia’s unprecedented naval shipbuilding program. The government’s Naval Shipbuilding College, Naval Group Australia, BAE Systems Maritime Australia and TAFE SA have joined forces to develop The Designer Traineeship. Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said the program would help provide shipbuilding industry work placements, with graduates to be equipped with basic shipbuilding design skills. Host companies of The Designer Traineeship will provide workplace experiences, mentoring, supervision, training and coaching for students. Upon completion of their traineeship, some graduates may be seconded to Naval Group in France. “The trainees will have the opportunity to get both study and work experience, while obtaining a shipbuilding Diploma of Engineering – Technical,” Price said. “I’m proud that our Naval Shipbuilding College and TAFE SA are supporting the joint venture by designing the program, a training plan and providing specific shipbuilding context to the course material. With the current lack of shipbuilding design work in Australia, this initiative will help develop the skill sets of naval shipbuilding designers through cooperation with a range of experienced shipbuilding companies. By 2030, Australia’s continuous shipbuilding sector will support 15,000 workers across the nation.” Students and job seekers interested in a sustainable career in Australia’s National Naval Shipbuilding Enterprise are encouraged to visit the Naval Shipbuilding College at www.navalshipbuildingcollege.com.au. For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Director of Sales Graham Joss at [email protected]